Montgomery, AL Noise from Specific Sources: Low-Frequency Bass Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Audibility test
- By ear; bass reverberations count even if words unclear
- Permit needed
- For any raucous or unreasonably loud noise
- Permit lead time
- File 15 business days ahead with special events dept.
- Permitting authority
- Chief of police
- Penalty
- Up to $500 fine per day
Summary
Montgomery's noise ordinance defines audibility by ear, not decibel meter, and expressly states that bass reverberations count even when the words of a song aren't clear. Any raucous, disturbing or unreasonably loud sound, including bass-heavy music, needs a police-issued permit unless it falls under a listed exemption.
(a)Required.(1)It shall be unlawful for any individual or organization to make or create or to ask or pay another to make or create any noise that is raucous, jarring, disturbing, unreasonably loud or a nuisance to a reasonable person within the area of audibility, without first obtaining a permit in accordance with the procedures set forth in this section. A permit is not authorized for a noise which will be repetitive in nature or made on a continuing basis.(2)For purposes of this section, audibility shall be measured by the auditory senses, words and phrases need not be discernible and bass reverberations are included.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 27).
Full Breakdown
Sec. " That standard applies to the permit requirement in Sec. 18-174(a)(1), which makes it unlawful to make or pay someone else to make any noise that is "raucous, jarring, disturbing, unreasonably loud or a nuisance to a reasonable person within the area of audibility" without a permit from the police chief, obtained by filing an application with the special events department at least 15 business days before the event. The chief of police is the permitting authority and weighs factors including proximity to homes, churches and schools, the time of day, and whether the activity involves protected speech before issuing, conditioning or denying a permit.
Sec. 18-171 states the division's purpose is to curb "loud, raucous, jarring, disturbing, unnecessary, or unnatural noises" that harm public health, comfort and safety. A handful of acts are exempt regardless of volume under Sec. m.
Violations & Fines
Sec. 18-172 sets the penalty for the entire noise division, including unpermitted bass-heavy sound: a fine not to exceed $500.00, with each day a violation continues charged as a separate offense. A permit can also be revoked before an event by the chief of police, with the mayor's or city attorney's concurrence, on written notice stating the grounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Montgomery's noise law cover bass from speakers even if lyrics aren't clear?
Do I need a permit to play loud music with heavy bass in Montgomery?
What's the fine for violating Montgomery's noise permit rule?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Montgomery
Compare Montgomery to another location·View the Alabama noise from specific sources overview
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